A new window can improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce drafts. It can also increase resale value and curb appeal. The type of window you choose will affect maintenance and installation costs.
Consider choosing windows that complement your home’s architectural style and are designed for the local climate. Steel windows, for example, are durable and offer an elegant appearance.
Wood
Renovating windows is one of the most cost-effective ways to improve home energy efficiency and resale value. LAS Shutters + Windows offers several options to help you choose the best window replacement for your home in Louisiana’s humid climate.
Wood windows offer a natural aesthetic and warm, welcoming feel to any home. They also provide a good amount of insulation, and they are less prone to water damage and insect infestations than other materials.
However, wood windows require more frequent upkeep than other materials, leading to higher long-term costs. They may also be more susceptible to rot and mold. Wood windows can be clad in aluminum or vinyl to reduce maintenance needs.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows offer a cost-effective solution to update your home’s aesthetic and improve its value. They are durable, energy efficient and come in a variety of colors and styles. They are also easy to maintain and keep free of moisture and pests.
The majority of modern vinyl windows are ENERGY STAR certified and feature insulated glass units that help reduce your energy bills by blocking the transfer of heat. Many of them also use dense gasses like argon to enhance energy efficiency even further.
The best window style for you depends on your budget, your lifestyle and personal preferences. Consider factors like the window’s size, frame material and glass options before making a decision.
Aluminum
The type of windows you choose for your home can have a significant impact on its overall look, comfort and energy efficiency. Whether you are building a new house or updating an older one, it’s important to consider the benefits of each option.
Aluminum clad windows provide a solution that offers both style and durability. They are highly resistant to harsh environmental conditions and can withstand high winds and moisture. This strength also helps protect against corrosion and fading. This resistance to abrasion and degradation reduces the need for maintenance, making them an excellent choice for coastal homes. These windows are available in a variety of colors and finishes to match different architectural styles.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a common material for surfboards and swimming pools, but it’s also used in home window frames. This composite material is surprisingly durable and offers energy efficiency and design flexibility.
Unlike vinyl or wood, fiberglass doesn’t corrode, warp, or crack. It also needs little upkeep, saving homeowners money in the long run.
One of the biggest benefits of fiberglass windows is their ability to block out outdoor noise. The tighter seals and enhanced insulation also cut energy costs by maintaining consistent temperatures in the home. In addition, they reduce drafts and increase home value.
ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR certified windows, doors and skylights provide comfort in your home that other products can’t match. These windows reduce energy bills, prevent drafts and protect your furnishings from harmful sun rays. They are also durable and low maintenance.
Look for the ENERGY STAR sticker to make sure your windows are independently certified to meet strict energy-efficient guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. To maximize your savings, choose windows with a lower U-factor for cold climates and a higher SHGC for South-facing walls that absorb the most sunlight. Double-pane ENERGY STAR windows with argon or krypton gas sealed between the panes offer increased insulation.
Durability
Windows protect homes from harsh weather conditions and intruders. They also add beauty and charm to a home’s exterior and increase its curb appeal. Choosing the right window type is not only about aesthetics and cost; it is also about energy efficiency.
Window features that can help you save money include a low Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), which helps reduce excessive sunlight from entering your home. This feature is essential in Louisiana’s hot climate, which places a heavy burden on air conditioning systems during the summer.
Additionally, you may want to look for windows with a low U-factor to improve insulation and lower your energy costs. This is achieved by using two or more panes of glass with an insulating gas such as argon between them.